Josh Rotham: Defender’s stint at West Coast Eagles over after 72 AFL games

West Coast’s off-season of change has continued, with defender Josh Rotham the latest Eagle to depart the club as it overhauls close to a quarter of its list.

Rotham exits after 72 AFL games following his selection at pick 37 in the 2016 draft.

The West Perth product featured in 13 games this year as a versatile backman, but even Tom Barrass’ switch to Hawthorn at last week’s trade deadline wasn’t enough for the Eagles to retain him.

Rotham took to social media to announce his departure, saying he was confident the rebuilding club was heading in the right direction.

“I love this footy club and have been spoilt with some of the best mentors I could have imagined,” Rotham wrote on Instagram.

“Got drafted with my best mate, gained some more and got to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL in these colours.“Four quarters on the weekend is gold, but the belly laughs, doom sessions, footy trips, and relationships you build in between are just as special.

“Finish up bloody proud and hope I made my people feel the same way at some stage along the way too. I have no doubt this club will be back where it belongs in no time.”

No West Coast player has featured in more AFL games without playing in a final than Rotham, with the defender debuting in round three of 2019 - just three games after the Eagles’ 2018 flag triumph.

Rotham’s exit means West Coast have now farewelled 10 players from their 2024 list.

Barrass and Jack Darling headed east in high-profile trades, while fellow mainstay Andrew Gaff retired.

Alex Witherden, Jamaine Jones, Jai Culley, Zane Trew, Coby Burgiel and Jordyn Baker have all been delisted.

Richmond pair Liam Baker and Jack Graham are new additions, as is Carlton forward Matt Owies, as the Eagles plot their next moves with picks 12, 26 and 73 at next month’s draft.